Unveiling the Health Benefits of Mushroom Supplements

Consumer interest in mushroom-based supplements continues to grow, and for good reason. The health benefits of mushroom supplements have been recognized for thousands of years. As recently as 1991, a 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in the Tyrolean Alps was found carrying Piptoporus betulinus—a mushroom likely used for its natural anti-parasitic and laxative properties.¹Halpern GM, Miller AH. Medicinal Mushrooms. New York: M. Evans & Company; 2002:59-74.

Today, scientific research has validated many of the traditional uses of edible mushroom extracts, particularly those long used in Chinese and Japanese medicine. These extracts are now widely recognized for their immune-supporting properties, as well as a range of other wellness benefits.

Thanks to this growing body of evidence and historical credibility, mushroom supplements have become increasingly popular in the modern nutraceutical market, positioned as both effective and natural tools for supporting overall health.

Navigating the Market Trends in the Mushroom Supplement Industry

The global functional mushroom market is projected to grow from $33.72 billion in 2025 to $62.18 billion by 2032, reflecting a strong compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.14%. In the U.S. alone, the market is expected to reach $8.92 billion by 2032. Globally, the Asia-Pacific region continues to dominate, supported by favorable agroclimatic conditions, rich fungal biodiversity, low-cost labor, and access to agricultural and industrial byproducts ideal for mushroom cultivation. China remains a major producer of medicinal mushrooms, which have been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries to promote wellness and treat various ailments.²Functional Mushroom Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Chaga Mushrooms, Shiitake Mushrooms, Reishi Mushrooms, Cordyceps Mushrooms, Turkey Tail Mushrooms, and Others), By Application (Food and Beverages, Dietary Supplements, Pharmaceuticals, and Personal Care and Cosmetics), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032. Fortune Business Insights. Retrieved June 23, 2025 from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/functional-mushrooms-market-101511

This surge is fueled by growing consumer demand for natural health solutions, increased research and development, and expanding product lines targeting areas such as calm, focus, and memory. The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated interest in immune-supportive ingredients. Additionally, emerging clinical research has validated mushroom supplements benefits, reinforcing consumer confidence and driving continued category growth.³Functional Mushroom Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Chaga Mushrooms, Shiitake Mushrooms, Reishi Mushrooms, Cordyceps Mushrooms, Turkey Tail Mushrooms, and Others), By Application (Food and Beverages, Dietary Supplements, Pharmaceuticals, and Personal Care and Cosmetics), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032. Fortune Business Insights. Retrieved June 23, 2025 from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/functional-mushrooms-market-101511

What Are Mushroom Supplements?

While common white mushrooms are familiar grocery staples, the species used in functional mushroom supplements are quite different. Mushrooms, neither plant nor animal, belong to their own biological kingdom—Fungi. Unlike plants, they do not contain chlorophyll and must absorb nutrients from organic matter. What we typically recognize as a mushroom is the fruiting body, which grows above ground, in soil, or directly on its food source.

Mushroom supplements may include dried powders from the fruiting body, the mycelium (an underground network of thread-like structures), or concentrated extracts of either. In most cases, there is more clinical research supporting the benefits of mushroom extracts compared to powders.

Historically, many health-promoting mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. Their benefits are largely attributed to naturally occurring polysaccharides, which play a key role in their physiological effects. Delivery forms include capsules, tablets, tinctures, powders, teas, and functional foods.

Mushroom Supplement Benefits by Type

Among the most popular health-promoting mushrooms are Lion’s mane, reishi, shiitake, Agaricus blazei, Cordyceps, and maitake. Each species offers unique bioactive compounds that contribute to a wide range of potential health benefits.

Though ongoing research continues to expand our understanding, current evidence suggests that various mushroom types may support immune system modulation, joint health, cognitive performance, energy levels, and liver function. Additional benefits may include promoting insulin sensitivity and supporting healthy insulin and blood glucose levels already within a normal range. Certain mushrooms may also help maintain healthy triglyceride and cholesterol levels, provide antioxidant protection, and offer support for ovarian and menstrual health in women.

These diverse effects make mushroom supplements a versatile tool in maintaining overall health and wellness.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as Lion’s mane, has a long history of traditional use and is rich in bioactive compounds such as hericenones and erinacines. While research is still developing, growing interest surrounds lion’s mane mushroom supplement benefits, which may include:

• Supporting cognitive functions⁴Saitsu Y, Nishide A, Kikushima K, Shimizu K, Ohnuki K. Improvement of cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus. Biomed Res. 2019;40(4):125-131. ⁵Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72.
• Promoting positive brain and nerve health-related activities⁶Li IC, Lee LY, Tzeng TT, Chen WP, Chen YP, Shiao YJ, Chen CC. Neurohealth Properties of Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Enriched with Erinacines. Behav Neurol. 2018 May 21;2018:5802634. doi: 10.1155/2018/5802634. PMID: 29951133; PMCID: PMC5987239.
• Promoting a healthy mood⁷Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7.
• Providing antioxidant protection and promoting a healthy immune system⁸Natural Health Product. Mushrooms. Health Canada. March 25, 2019: 28 pp.

Reishi Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Ganoderma lucidum, known as reishi, has been revered in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for its stress-relieving and adaptogenic qualities. Its bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans and triterpenes⁹Wasser SP, Weis AL. Therapeutic effects of substances occurring in higher Basidiomycetes mushrooms: a modern perspective. Crit Rev Immunol 1999;19:65-96. ¹⁰Yuen JW, Gohel MD. Anticancer effects of Ganoderma lucidum: a review of scientific evidence. Nutr Cancer 2005;53:11-7. ¹¹Gao Y, Zhou S, Jiang W, et al. Effects of ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients. Immunol Invest 2003;32:201-15. , contribute to a wide range of potential health benefits.

In addition to its use for stress and as an adaptogen, there are several reishi mushroom benefits. The constituents of this mushroom seem to have a variety of effects, including antioxidant, immune-modulating, and cardiovascular effects.¹²Wasser SP, Weis AL. Therapeutic effects of substances occurring in higher Basidiomycetes mushrooms: a modern perspective. Crit Rev Immunol 1999;19:65-96.

Additional reishi mushroom supplement benefits backed by research include:

• Stimulating cytokine production from immune cells like macrophages and T-lymphocytes¹³Wang SY, Hsu ML, Hsu HC, et al. The anti-tumor effect of Ganoderma lucidum is mediated by cytokines released from activated macrophages and T lymphocytes. Int J Cancer 1997;70:699-705. ¹⁴Yuen JW, Gohel MD. Anticancer effects of Ganoderma lucidum: a review of scientific evidence. Nutr Cancer 2005;53:11-7.
• Supporting immune modulation and antioxidant activity¹⁵Gao Y, Zhou S, Jiang W, Huang M, Dai X. Effects of ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients. Immunol Invest. 2003 Aug;32(3):201-15.
• Promoting healthy blood pressure already within a normal range¹⁶Kammatsuse K, Kajiware N, Hayashi K. Studies on Ganoderma lucidum: I. Efficacy against hypertension and side effects. Yakugaku Zasshi 1985;105:531–3. ¹⁷Jin H, Zhang G, Cao X, et al. Treatment of hypertension by ling zhi combined with hypotensor and its effects on arterial, arteriolar and capillary pressure and microcirculation. In: Nimmi H, Xiu RJ, Sawada T, Zheng C. (eds). Microcirculatory Approach to Asian Traditional Medicine. New York: Elsevier Science, 1996; 131-8.
• Supporting healthy triglyceride and cholesterol levels¹⁸Chu TT, Benzie IF, Lam CW, Fok BS, Lee KK, Tomlinson B. Study of potential cardioprotective effects of Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi): results of a controlled human intervention trial. Br J Nutr. 2012 Apr;107(7):1017-27.
• Aiding in joint health, especially when combined with herbs like Atractylodes and Phellodendron (e.g., San Miao San formula)¹⁹Li EK, Tam LS, Wong CK, et al. Safety and efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum (lingzhi) and San Miao San supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial. Arthritis Rheum. 2007 Oct 15;57(7):1143-50.

Reishi supplements are commonly available in capsule, powder, and tea formats, making them an accessible option for holistic health support.

Shiitake Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Lentinula edodes, commonly known as shiitake, has a rich history as both a culinary ingredient and a traditional remedy.²⁰Jones K. Shiitake: The Healing Mushroom. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1995. Today, it remains popular for its potential to support healthy immune and liver function.²¹Chang R. Functional properties of edible mushrooms. Nutr Rev 1996;54(11 Pt 2):S91-3. ²²Taguchi I. Clinical efficacy of lentinan on patients with stomach cancer: End point results of a four-year follow-up survey. Cancer Detect Prevent Suppl 1987;1:333–49. ²³Matsuoka H, Seo Y, Wakasugi H, et al. Lentinan potentiates immunity and prolongs survival time of some patients. Anticancer Res 1997;17:2751–6. ²⁴Jones K. Shiitake” A major medicinal mushroom. Alt Compl Ther 1998;4:53–9.

Shiitake is a natural source of ergothioneine, a potent antioxidant, and is also the foundation of AHCC® (Active Hexose Correlated Compound)—a proprietary cultured extract derived from shiitake mycelia.²⁵Apparoo Y, Wei Phan C, Rani Kuppusamy U, Chan EWC. Potential role of ergothioneine rich mushroom as anti-aging candidate through elimination of neuronal senescent cells. Brain Res. 2024 Feb 1;1824:148693. doi: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148693. Epub 2023 Nov 29. PMID: 38036238. AHCC contains a complex blend of alpha-glucans, amino acids, lipids, minerals, and oligosaccharides, which comprise approximately 74% of its content.²⁶Ye SF, Ichimura K, Wakame K, Ohe M. Suppressive effects of Active Hexose Correlated Compound on the increased activity of hepatic and renal ornithine decarboxylase induced by oxidative stress. Life Sci 2003;74:593-602.

Shiitake mushroom supplement benefits, primarily associated with AHCC and ergothioneine, may include:

• Acting as a biological response modifier
• Promoting a healthy and balanced immune response²⁷Kidd PM. The use of mushroom glucans and proteoglycans in cancer treatment. Altern Med Rev 2000;5(1):4-27.
• Enhancing natural killer (NK) cell activity and other immune parameters²⁸Terakawa N, Matsui Y, Satoi S, et al. Immunological effect of active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) in healthy volunteers: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Nutr Cancer 2008;60(5):643-51.
• Supporting anti-aging activity by aiding the removal of senescent neuronal cells²⁹Apparoo Y, Wei Phan C, Rani Kuppusamy U, Chan EWC. Potential role of ergothioneine rich mushroom as anti-aging candidate through elimination of neuronal senescent cells. Brain Res. 2024 Feb 1;1824:148693. doi: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148693. Epub 2023 Nov 29. PMID: 38036238.

Common delivery forms of shiitake mushroom supplements include capsules, powders, and tinctures.

Agaricus blazei Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Originally discovered in Florida in 1944, Agaricus blazei gained attention for its widespread use in the mountainous Piedade region of São Paulo, Brazil, where it was linked to notable health and longevity in the local population. Introduced to Japan in 1965 and commercially cultivated by 1978, this mushroom has since been extensively studied for its health-promoting properties.³⁰Mizuno T. Medicinal properties and clinical effects of culinary-medicinal mushroom Agaricus blazei Murrill (Agaricomycetideae). International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms 2002; 4(4):299-312.

Research suggests that Agaricus blazei may offer several key benefits, including:

• Immunostimulant activity³¹Kaneno R, Fontanari LM, Santos SA, et al. Effects of extracts from Brazilian sun-mushroom (Agaricus blazei) on the NK activity and lymphoproliferative responsiveness of Ehrlich tumor-bearing mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2004;42:909-16. ³²Nakajima A, Ishida T, Koga M, et al. Effect of hot water extract from Agaricus blazei Murill on antibody-producing cells in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2002;2:1205-11. ³³Kobayashi H, Yoshida R, Kanada Y, et al. Suppressing effects of daily oral supplementation of beta-glucan extracted from Agaricus blazei Murill on spontaneous and peritoneal disseminated metastasis in mouse model. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2005;131:527-38. ³⁴Ohno N, Furukawa M, Miura NN, et al. Antitumor beta glucan from the cultured fruit body of Agaricus blazei. Biol Pharm Bull 2001;24:820-8. ³⁵Lee YL, Kim HJ, Lee MS, et al. Oral administration of Agaricus blazei (H1 strain) inhibited tumor growth in a sarcoma 180 inoculation model. Exp Anim 2003;52:371-5.
• Enhanced cytokine production, such as interferon and interleukin³⁶Chen L, Shao H. Extract from Agaricus blazei Murill can enhance immune responses elicited by DNA vaccine against foot-and-mouth disease. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2006;109:177-82. ³⁷Kasai H, He LM, Kawamura M, et al. IL-12 Production induced by Agaricus blazei fraction H (ABH) involves toll-like receptor (TLR). Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2004;1:259-67.
• Stimulation of monocytes to produce interleukin-12³⁸Kasai H, He LM, Kawamura M, et al. IL-12 Production induced by Agaricus blazei fraction H (ABH) involves toll-like receptor (TLR). Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2004;1:259-67.
• Support for healthy insulin sensitivity and insulin levels already within the normal range³⁹Hsu CH, Liao YL, Lin SC, et al. The mushroom Agaricus Blazei Murill in combination with metformin and gliclazide improves insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Altern Complement Med 2007;13:97-102.
• Promotion of healthy liver function⁴⁰Hsu CH, Hwang KC, Chiang YH, Chou P. The mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill extract normalizes liver function in patients with chronic hepatitis B. J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Apr;14(3):299-301.

These findings make Agaricus blazei a promising ingredient in formulations intended to promote metabolic health and a healthy immune system.

Cordyceps Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Cordyceps sinensis, often referred to as “winter worm, summer herb,” is a unique fungus traditionally found in the high plateaus of western China. Its growth cycle (emerging from the remains of a caterpillar) was first observed by Tibetan herdsmen, who noticed increased vitality in livestock that grazed on it. Eventually, Cordyceps became a prized tonic in traditional Chinese medicine and was reserved for emperors.⁴¹Halpern GM. Cordyceps: China’s Healing Mushroom. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing; 1999.

Cordyceps gained global attention in 1993 when a group of female Chinese runners shattered world records, reportedly aided by its use.⁴²Halpern GM. Cordyceps: China’s Healing Mushroom. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing; 1999.

Potential cordyceps mushroom benefits include:

• Supporting liver and kidney health
• Promoting immune function
• Enhancing energy and athletic performance
• Delivering antioxidant support⁴³Hobbs C. Medicinal Mushrooms: An Exploration of Tradition, Healing and Culture. Santa Cruz, CA: Botanica Press; 1995.

Cordyceps is commonly available in capsules, powders, and tinctures, and continues to be favored for its adaptogenic and performance-enhancing properties.

Maitake Mushroom Supplement Benefits

Maitake (Grifola frondosa), also known as the “dancing mushroom,” earned its name from the joy experienced by those who discovered it in the wild.⁴⁴Hobbs C. Medicinal Mushrooms: An Exploration of Tradition, Healing and Culture. Santa Cruz, CA: Botanica Press; 1995. Revered for both its culinary appeal and health-promoting properties, maitake has long been used as a tonic and adaptogen to support overall wellness and stress resilience.

Like other functional mushrooms, maitake is rich in beta-glucans and ergothioneine. It has been shown to activate key immune components such as natural killer cells, cytotoxic T-cells, and interleukin-1.

Potential maitake mushroom benefits include:

• Immunomodulatory support⁴⁵Nanba H, Hamaguchi AM, Kuroda H. The chemical structure of an antitumor polysaccharide in fruit bodies of Grifola frondosa (maitake). Chem Pharm Bull 1987; 35:1162-8.
• Promoting healthy blood glucose levels already within the normal range⁴⁶Konno S, Tortorelis DG, Fullerton SA, et al. A possible hypoglycaemic effect of maitake mushroom on Type 2 diabetic patients. Diabet Med 2001;18:1010.
• Supporting ovarian and menstrual health in women⁴⁷Chen JT, Tominaga K, Sato Y, et al. Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) extract induces ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a possible monotherapy and a combination therapy after failure with first-line clomiphene citrate. J Altern Complement Med 2010;16:1295-9.
• Assisting with weight management in overweight individuals⁴⁸Yokota M. Observatory trial of anti-obesity activity of maitake (Grifola frondosa). Anshin 1992; 7:202-4.

Popular delivery forms include capsules, tablets, powders, and teas.

Multi-Mushroom Supplement Benefits

While individual mushrooms each offer unique health benefits, combining them into a mushroom dietary supplement blend can enhance their overall effectiveness.⁴⁹Bruno G. Better Together. How different mushroom species can complement each other in a blended product. Nutritional Outlook. September 2022: 50-2. In fact, formulations that include a variety of mushroom extracts may deliver greater immune support than single-species supplements.

For example, one study⁵⁰Stamets P. Potentiation of Cell-Mediated Host Defense Using Fruitbodies and Mycelia of Medicinal Mushrooms. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2003; 5: 179–191. found that a combination of maitake, Agaricus blazei, chaga, reishi, Cordyceps sinensis, Phellinus linteus, and Lion’s mane significantly increased natural killer (NK) cell activity, more so than any of the individual mushrooms alone.

In another study⁵¹Mallard B, Leach DN, Wholmuth H, Tiralong J. Synergistic immuno-modulatory activity in human macrophages of a medicinal mushroom formulation consisting of Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake. PLoS One. 2019 Nov 7;14(11):e0224740., a blend of reishi, shiitake, and maitake mushrooms demonstrated strong immunostimulatory effects, with a synergistic impact that exceeded the sum of the individual extracts.

These multi-mushroom supplement benefits make blended formulas a compelling choice for brand owners looking to deliver comprehensive immune and wellness support in a single product.

The Science Behind Mushroom Benefits: What the Research Shows

Mushrooms have a long-standing history of traditional use across cultures, and laboratory and animal research has consistently demonstrated their health-promoting potential. However, human clinical studies are the gold standard for validating health claims, and the results are promising.

Recent human research has shown that various mushroom species can:

• Support cognitive function⁵²Muchimapura S, Thukham-Mee W, Tong-Un T, Sangartit W, Phuthong S. Effects of a Functional Cone Mushroom (Termitomyces fuliginosus) Protein Snack Bar on Cognitive Function in Middle Age: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2024 Oct 24;16(21):3616. doi: 10.3390/nu16213616. PMID: 39519449; PMCID: PMC11548036.
• Modulate immune T-cell activity in older adults⁵³Iser-Bem PN, Lobato TB, Alecrim-Zeza AL, Dos Santos de Oliveira LC, Passos MEP, Manuel R, Diniz VLS, Correa IS, de Oliveira SP, Silva EBD, Almeida MM, Dias BB, Gritte RB, Levada-Pires AC, Masi LN, Hatanaka E, Pithon-Curi TC, Hirabara SM, Fabi JP, Curi R, Gorjao R. Ganoderma lucidum dry extract supplementation modulates T lymphocyte function in older women. Br J Nutr. 2024 Jul 28;132(2):130-140. doi: 10.1017/S0007114524001144. Epub 2024 May 27. PMID: 38800991.
• Help maintain healthy serum glucose levels⁵⁴Uffelman CN, Schmok JN, Campbell RE, Hartman AS, Olson MR, Anderson NL, Reisdorph NA, Tang M, Krebs NF, Campbell WW. Consuming Mushrooms When Adopting a Healthy Mediterranean-Style Dietary Pattern Does Not Influence Short-Term Changes of Most Cardiometabolic Disease Risk Factors in Healthy Middle-Aged and Older Adults. J Nutr. 2024 Feb;154(2):574-582. doi: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.12.026. Epub 2023 Dec 20. PMID: 38135005; PMCID: PMC10997904.
• Improve strength and endurance by reducing stress⁵⁵Mitra S, Mitra M, Nandi DK, Saha M, Bandyopadhyay A. Efficacy of Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes) Supplementation on Psychological Stress and Selective Fitness Profile Parameters in Female College Students in West Bengal, India. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2024;26(11):51-64. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2024055300. PMID: 39241163.
• Alleviate symptoms of dry eye⁵⁶Chang HH, Chang WJ, Jhou BY, Kuo SY, Hsu JH, Chen YL, Chen CC, Lin DP. Efficacy of Cordyceps cicadae (Ascomycota) Mycelium Supplementation for Amelioration of Dry Eye Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Pilot Study. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2022;24(12):57-67. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2022045307. PMID: 36374982.
• Reduce visceral fat⁵⁷González-Bonilla A, Meneses ME, Pérez-Herrera A, Armengol-Álvarez D, Martínez-Carrera D. Dietary Supplementation with Oyster Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus (Agaricomycetes), Reduces Visceral Fat and Hyperlipidemia in Inhabitants of a Rural Community in Mexico. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2022;24(9):49-61. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2022044837. PMID: 36004709.
• Enhance hunger and satiety regulation⁵⁸Kleftaki SA, Simati S, Amerikanou C, Gioxari A, Tzavara C, Zervakis GI, Kalogeropoulos N, Kokkinos A, Kaliora AC. Pleurotus eryngii improves postprandial glycaemia, hunger and fullness perception, and enhances ghrelin suppression in people with metabolically unhealthy obesity. Pharmacol Res. 2022 Jan;175:105979. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105979. Epub 2021 Nov 16. PMID: 34798266.
• Improve the overall quality of one’s life⁵⁹Aldwinckle J, Kristiansen B. A Quality-of-Life Study in Healthy Adults Supplemented with Lentinex® Beta-Glucan of Shiitake Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Lentinus edodes (Agaricomycetes). Int J Med Mushrooms. 2020;22(5):407-415. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2020034208. PMID: 32749096.

These findings represent only a portion of the growing body of clinical evidence. As more data emerges, it becomes increasingly clear that a well-formulated mushroom supplement can be grounded in solid science and offer wide-ranging health benefits.

Wrapping Up the Discussion About the Health Benefits of Mushroom Supplements

This article provided a comprehensive overview of the benefits of mushroom supplements for supplement brand owners seeking to expand their product line with science-backed, in-demand ingredients.

It covers individual mushroom varieties such as Lion’s mane, reishi, shiitake, Cordyceps, maitake, and Agaricus blazei, detailing their clinically supported effects on immunity, cognition, occasional stress, liver function, metabolic health, and more. The article also highlights the potential advantages of multi-mushroom formulations, market growth projections, and insights from traditional and modern research. Whether you’re developing your first mushroom-based formula or refining an existing line, this guide provides valuable insights to inform formulation strategy, ingredient selection, and product positioning in a competitive, fast-growing category.

Are you ready to create a high-quality mushroom supplement for your business? If so, call 800-526-9095 to speak with one of our knowledgeable sales executives or request a nutraceutical manufacturing price quote if you’ve already finalized your project requirements!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mushroom Supplements

How do mushroom supplements differ from eating whole mushrooms?

If you’re thinking about the standard white mushrooms you find in a supermarket, those are of the culinary variety, not the functional variety. As such, they’re not likely to offer any meaningful health-related benefits. For those, you’ll want to use mushroom supplements providing evidence-based mushroom extracts with science to support the claims being made about them. These may include extracts of Lion’s mane, reishi, shiitake, Agaricus blazei, Cordyceps, and maitake.

References

• 1
  Halpern GM, Miller AH. Medicinal Mushrooms. New York: M. Evans & Company; 2002:59-74.
• 2
  Functional Mushroom Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Chaga Mushrooms, Shiitake Mushrooms, Reishi Mushrooms, Cordyceps Mushrooms, Turkey Tail Mushrooms, and Others), By Application (Food and Beverages, Dietary Supplements, Pharmaceuticals, and Personal Care and Cosmetics), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032. Fortune Business Insights. Retrieved June 23, 2025 from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/functional-mushrooms-market-101511
• 3
  Functional Mushroom Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Chaga Mushrooms, Shiitake Mushrooms, Reishi Mushrooms, Cordyceps Mushrooms, Turkey Tail Mushrooms, and Others), By Application (Food and Beverages, Dietary Supplements, Pharmaceuticals, and Personal Care and Cosmetics), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032. Fortune Business Insights. Retrieved June 23, 2025 from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/functional-mushrooms-market-101511
• 4
  Saitsu Y, Nishide A, Kikushima K, Shimizu K, Ohnuki K. Improvement of cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus. Biomed Res. 2019;40(4):125-131.
• 5
  Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72.
• 6
  Li IC, Lee LY, Tzeng TT, Chen WP, Chen YP, Shiao YJ, Chen CC. Neurohealth Properties of Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Enriched with Erinacines. Behav Neurol. 2018 May 21;2018:5802634. doi: 10.1155/2018/5802634. PMID: 29951133; PMCID: PMC5987239.
• 7
  Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7.
• 8
  Natural Health Product. Mushrooms. Health Canada. March 25, 2019: 28 pp.
• 9
  Wasser SP, Weis AL. Therapeutic effects of substances occurring in higher Basidiomycetes mushrooms: a modern perspective. Crit Rev Immunol 1999;19:65-96.
• 10
  Yuen JW, Gohel MD. Anticancer effects of Ganoderma lucidum: a review of scientific evidence. Nutr Cancer 2005;53:11-7.
• 11
  Gao Y, Zhou S, Jiang W, et al. Effects of ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients. Immunol Invest 2003;32:201-15.
• 12
  Wasser SP, Weis AL. Therapeutic effects of substances occurring in higher Basidiomycetes mushrooms: a modern perspective. Crit Rev Immunol 1999;19:65-96.
• 13
  Wang SY, Hsu ML, Hsu HC, et al. The anti-tumor effect of Ganoderma lucidum is mediated by cytokines released from activated macrophages and T lymphocytes. Int J Cancer 1997;70:699-705.
• 14
  Yuen JW, Gohel MD. Anticancer effects of Ganoderma lucidum: a review of scientific evidence. Nutr Cancer 2005;53:11-7.
• 15
  Gao Y, Zhou S, Jiang W, Huang M, Dai X. Effects of ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients. Immunol Invest. 2003 Aug;32(3):201-15.
• 16
  Kammatsuse K, Kajiware N, Hayashi K. Studies on Ganoderma lucidum: I. Efficacy against hypertension and side effects. Yakugaku Zasshi 1985;105:531–3.
• 17
  Jin H, Zhang G, Cao X, et al. Treatment of hypertension by ling zhi combined with hypotensor and its effects on arterial, arteriolar and capillary pressure and microcirculation. In: Nimmi H, Xiu RJ, Sawada T, Zheng C. (eds). Microcirculatory Approach to Asian Traditional Medicine. New York: Elsevier Science, 1996; 131-8.
• 18
  Chu TT, Benzie IF, Lam CW, Fok BS, Lee KK, Tomlinson B. Study of potential cardioprotective effects of Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi): results of a controlled human intervention trial. Br J Nutr. 2012 Apr;107(7):1017-27.
• 19
  Li EK, Tam LS, Wong CK, et al. Safety and efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum (lingzhi) and San Miao San supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial. Arthritis Rheum. 2007 Oct 15;57(7):1143-50.
• 20
  Jones K. Shiitake: The Healing Mushroom. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1995.
• 21
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